“Often, would-be vacationers get so hung up on figuring out where they want to go, they forget to consider what they’ll do when they get there,” said Matthew Phillips, director of travel for AARP Services, Inc.

Plan ahead. While spontaneous weekend getaways sound fun, the best way to save vacation dollars is by planning ahead. Keep in mind most resorts offer the greatest variety of available room options, package amenities and overall savings when stays are booked further out in advance.

From the time children drop their first few coins into a piggy bank, they are ready to learn about setting savings goals and making smart spending decisions. The experts say the sooner parents start imparting these lessons, the more effective they will be in helping children grow into financially responsible young adults.

Since white bread usually is the star of the lunch box lineup, French Meadow Bakery has developed a tasty new sandwich bread as the perfect midday staple for children (and even adults) living with gluten intolerance.